Chiropractic
Chiropractic is a primary health care profession which specialises in the diagnosis, treatment and management of conditions of the neuromusculoskeletal system (the joints, ligaments, muscles and nerves of the body) and the effects of these disorders on general health. Chiropractors are particularly concerned with the function of the nervous system and the effects it has on the rest of the body. Their focus tends to be on the joints of the spine and how the function of these joints can have an effect on the nervous system as a whole, although treatment can often involve working on other joints (including knees, shoulders and even the jaw). Chiropractors mainly use their hands to make specific adjustments (manipulations) to treat a variety of conditions; treatment also often involves soft tissue work including massage and specific exercises.
Your first visit to a Chiropractor will last quite a bit longer than subsequent visits. At your initial appointment the Chiropractor takes a full history, including details of your current complaint,previous injuries or related problems, full medical history and details of any medication or supplements you are taking. Some of the questions the Chiropractor will ask may not seem pertinent – if you are unsure feel free to ask why. Following this the Chiropractor may ask you to undress to your underwear (a gown is available if you prefer), in order to perform a full examination, which can involve chiropractic, orthopaedic and neurological tests. If it is appropriate the Chiropractor may treat you on your first visit, after explaining the findings, what the treatment options are, the likely outcome and what you should expect. Some conditions may require referral for other diagnostic or laboratory tests such as x-rays, which may mean the Chiropractor will delay the first treatment until we have enough information to ensure it is safe to proceed.
Chiropractic is a highly regulated profession; Chiropractors must hold a degree qualification and be registered with the General Chiropractic Council in the UK. Each year Chiropractors must continue to update their knowledge through post-graduate learning schemes. The individual interests of the Chiropractor are often reflected in the types of conditions they treat and the courses they attend to further develop their skills. Chiropractic is one of the most rapidly growing healthcare professions in the UK, with more and more people looking to Chiropractic care for help. Chiropractic has been proven to be a safe an effective form of treatment for a variety of conditions and can be adapted to suit almost everyone, from 0-100+ years old. If you have a specific concern as to whether you are suitable for treatment – please ask.
Chiropractic care is recognised by most major health insurance companies; please check with your individual insurer for details of your cover.
For further information or to make an appointment please Contact Us at The Grekin Clinic.
Kinesiotaping
The Kinesiotaping technique was established around 30 years ago by Japanese chiropractor Kenzo Kase, since this time a wide variety of applications of kinesiotape have been tested and researched.
Kinesiotape is now widely used and is often characterised by the brightly coloured tape which is now regularly used by athletes of all levels, participating in a multitude of sports.
The use of kinesiotape is becoming increasingly common in combination with other modalities in order to supplement treatment, to aid in all aspects of life.From something as fundamental as pain relief to improving posture, muscle function, lymphatic drainage and aiding in the reduction of swelling. Research is ongoing into the possible treatment of additional conditions not commonly associated with traditional taping techniques.
Kinesiotape is latex free and is designed to be comfortable to wear, mimicking the elastic properties of the skin. It is water resistant and will usually last for 3-5 days when applied properly. The technique used in kinesiotaping is what separates this particular taping method from other types of tape, and should only be applied by someone who has been trained in the technique, or under the advice of your practitioner.
As with any manual treatment method you will have a history and examination undertaken at your first appointment and a suitable course of treatment will be discussed with you. This may or may not include kinesiotaping. Whilst this is a safe and effective technique with few side effects, patch testing may be required prior to application. There are also a few conditions which contraindicate the use of Kinesiotape, please consult your practitioner if you have any concerns.
For more information or to make an appointment, Contact Us at The Grekin Clinic.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy involves the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of a wide range of problems involving muscles, tendons, joints and nerves. The conditions that physiotherapists treat include:
- Low Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Sports Injuries
- Joint Pain
- Sprains and Strains
- Pain associated with Arthritis
- Work related and overuse injuries
During the physiotherapy assessment a full history of the problem is taken, along with details of any previous injuries, existing medical conditions, medication and any other relevant information that relates to the your problem.
The physiotherapist will then carry out a physical examination that will help to determine the true nature and underlying cause of the problem. This will involve looking at individual joint movement,testing the muscles, tendons, joints and where relevant, nerve function.
Following the assessment, the physiotherapist will discuss the findings, provide the patient with information as to what is the nature and cause of the problem and discuss what the best way to treat the problem is. A treatment plan will be devised and discussed with the patient. Advice about how to manage the problem both at home and at work will be provided to avoid aggravating the problem and assist with improvement. The physiotherapist will also prescribe specific exercises in order to promote recovery. As part of your treatment plan, guidance will be given with regards to returning to activity, work and sport. Where necessary, return to fitness and gym programs will be prescribed.
As part of the physiotherapy service at the Grekin clinic, you may be referred for further investigations or scanning. This may involve x-ray, ultrasound, MRI or CT scans. If necessary you may be referred to your GP or to a specialist. Your physiotherapist will liaise with your GP where appropriate.
Private health insurance is accepted. Our physiotherapist is both Bupa and AXA-PPP registered.
For more information or to arrange an appointment Contact Us at The Grekin Clinic.
Podiatry
Podiatrists are specialists in the treatment and maintenance of the leg and foot. The feet form the body’s foundations; problems in the foundations can have serious consequences for the rest of the structure. The health of the foot is vital to ensure the correct function of the rest of the body.
Many disorders such as Arthritis, Diabetes, Circulatory and Neurological diseases often appear in the feet first. The feet can be viewed as mirrors of general health and can benefit from regular podiatric treatment. The podiatrist will work with you to optimise the health and fitness of the lower limb and especially of the foot.
Your first consultation and treatment may take a little longer than subsequent visits, as your podiatrist will review your medical history and current medication and make a careful note of your current symptoms. He will also need to know what previous or on-going treatments you have received before he undertakes a thorough examination of your lower limbs. He may also look at the way you walk and have you perform specific tasks such as kneeling or balancing on your toes.
All of these will help your podiatrist to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and begin an effective course of treatment. He will discuss with you his diagnosis, the treatment options available and the expected outcome. Because every person is unique, the number and frequency of treatments will vary from person to person; your podiatrist will usually be able to give you a more accurate timescale following your first consultation.
For more information or to arrange an appointment Contact Us at The Grekin Clinic.
